History

Ever since its foundation in 1977, the club has attracted skiers from a broad cross-section of backgrounds. These range from those taking to British hills whenever the first snows of winter arrive, to members who have discovered the fitness benefits of track skiing. The club also has a strong element of Telemark skiers - arguably the most graceful form of skiing. There are currently 43 club members, most living in Cumbria and North Lancashire.

The club newsletter is an important means for members to share news and views on ski destinations and new technology. It is published five times a year. To read a selection of articles from the archive, click on the image below.

Activities

Lakeland Cross Country Ski Club has an action-packed calendar of events throughout the year. In winter, there are outdoor meets most Sundays, with skiing on Cumbrian or Yorkshire fells whenever there is sufficient snow. Weekend trips to the Scotland Highlands also take place during the ski season.

For skiers with some experience, there may be the opportunity to join club members on multi-day ski tours of Scandinavia, staying in mountain huts along the route.

A select band of club members also take part in cross country ski races in Europe and would welcome anyone interested in participating in a citizen race (where thousands of skiers of all abilities race over a half marathon or marathon distance course). Further details about citizen races - skiing's equivalent of the London Marathon - can be found on the links page.

We recommend a visit to the Snowsport England website - www.escnordic.org.uk - for anyone wishing to know more about the variety of available cross country skiing disciplines, techniques and equipment.

Getting started

Everyone's got to start somewhere - and unlike the Scandinavians, most Britons haven't been fortunate enough to start skiing before they could walk. Snowsport England arranges a comprehensive package of weekend training sessions aimed at the beginner, intermediate and advanced skiers. These take place on dry ski slopes or on roller skis (similar to in-line skates).

In April, Snowsport England holds its annual on-snow week at Kvitavatn, Norway. This is a highly regarded course with expert tuition provided by Britain's leading Nordic skiers - a great opportunity for skiers to take their skills to the next level. Details about the Snowsport England courses can be found by clicking on Snowsport England on the links page.

Lakeland Cross Country Ski Club is also happy to arrange locally-based tuition for individuals or small groups. It has a large selection of skis and roller ski equipment for beginners to use. For details of sessions, please contact Webmaster@LakelandXCSki.org.uk or visit the events page.